Izabela frowned at her brother. “You don’t usually manipulate more than light.” “Yes, well, it was better than being blown away or, worse, being stranded in the desert because the balloon was carried off in the wind.” “True. Still, you…

“That would be a bit of a dilemma,” said Izabela as she poured the tea. Dmitrio let the illusion fade. “It was. There’s a reason why we have a magister system. Families shouldn’t be relied upon for justice when it…

“So which was it?” Marta held the kitchen door open for Dmitrio. “I’m getting there.” Dmitrio smiled. “You never were patient.” “I’m plenty patient. You just like drawing out a tale,” said Izabela. She put the kettle on to heat.…

“How is Maldriano?” asked Izabela. “She’s well. She, Alecia, and Kanno have adopted another child,” said Dmitrio. “Another? How many is that now?” “Four, I think.” Dmitrio shrugged. “You know they can’t refuse a child in need.” “Details,” said Izabela.…

Dmitrio cursed as a ball of fur whizzed past him. He just missed getting a net over it. His gardener, Pietro, held a second net at the ready. Dmitrio instructed, “Quickly, go around the other way.” “It’s no good, sir.…